
ClassIBX .6.435 
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^^^S^o(^6^cl^^f 



divert) Eotones Bust 



Mrs. Maty Haven Thirkield 







1 The joy of loyal service to the King 
Shone through her days, and lit up other lives." 



Jennings & Pye 

Cincinnati 

1903 



^ € 



lht UbRARY CF 
CONGRESS, 

Two Copies Received 

JAN 8 1903 

.Copyrignt Entry 
i CLASS 4U XXb. No 
COPY B. r 



• » • • -. g<wright by 
XheSWoma^sJUpmi! Missionary Society of the 

* • * » M«SriJo&>isii Episcopal Church 
1902 



Clt?a6etf) itotones d&wt 

1835-1899 

"A distinctive feature of the latter half of the 
nineteenth century is the development of so many 
good and true women." Thus wrote Mrs. Rust of 
a leader among women, and well do the words fit 
her own noble, Christlike character. Her ancestry 
was noted for nobility of life, freedom of thought, 
and conscientious action. In her blood flowed 
Scotch purity and strength, united with the san- 
guine temperament of the Welsh. Her father and 
mother, coming from the Middle States, and be- 
ginning their married life in Baltimore, were both 
members of the Quaker Brotherhood. Devout in 
spirit, true to God's leading, outspoken for the 
right, generous toward others, quiet and unob- 
trusive, yet bold and courageous in the hour of 
duty, they were noble representatives of the Society 
of Friends. 

3 



4 C£it?abitl) ketones Uust 

Born in such a home in 1835, Elizabeth 
Lownes Rust inherited the sterling integrity and 
The Quaker philanthropic spirit of her father, as 

Home we u as the beauty of feature, fine intel- 
lect, and strong character of her mother. The at- 
mosphere of the home surrounded her from infancy 
with purity and refinement. She unconsciously 
caught from the parental love and instruction, les- 
sons in the broader sphere of love towards human- 
ity and the wondrous richness of love towards God. 

In later years, as I saw the face of that Quaker 
mother entering the Western home in her simple 
garb of gray, I perceived the beauty and strength 
which had enriched the training of Elizabeth. In 
the early days, across the sea, her family had taken 
its place among the highest circles, and Mrs. 
Lownes, in Quaker costume, revealed a queenly 
presence and royal lineage as truly as though 
dressed in rustling silk. She had great influence 
and power in social and religious life. Her home 
was changed from the East to the West during 
Elizabeth's childhood, and Ohio welcomed her to 
its fresh and vigorous life. There the daughter 
availed herself of the educational advantages in her 
neighborhood, and graduated from Cooper Semi- 
nary, Dayton, in 1853. 

Her young womanhood was devoted to helpful 
lines of service. During the war she was president 
of a branch of the Sanitary Commission, noted for 



fifti^abetl) iotones Must 5 

its zeal and success in furnishing supplies to armies 
and hospitals. Keenly alive to the needs of the 
times, she was eager to enlist in the Young 
silent army of home workers, so loyal Womanhood 
and effective in their assistance to the brave sol- 
diers in the field. 

She developed a strong taste for art, and for 
several years was engaged as Instructor in Art in 
the Cincinnati Wesleyan Female College 
during its earlier history. She greatly 
enjoyed this contact with youth, and the opportunity 
to turn their fresh thoughts into noble channels. 
She gained some recognition as an amateur artist 
and portrait painter, and in 1871 went abroad 
for further study. In Paris and Rome she enjoyed 
special opportunities under the guidance of Madam 
Marjoli, the sculptor, and Monsieur Jules Richome, 
the distinguished painter. In Paris she had friendly 
relations with the families of Drs. De Pressense 
and Bercier, the distinguished Protestant divines. 

This life in foreign lands and association with 
master minds was a great joy to her artistic nature. 
As the hand wielded the brush, and the colors were 
transferred from the palette to canvas, until the 
living presence seemed to stand before one, her 
soul caught the glow of the true artist, her mind 
was quickened, her whole being enriched. The 
Italian face, with its bronzed features and scornful 
eyes, reveal the wicked thought and sinister mind; 



6 (ftijabetfc iLotonea ftu*t 

the peasant, in his humble toil and simple life, is 
in vivid contrast to the thoughtful monk wrapped 
in his gloomy cowl. Elizabeth Lownes reveled in 
this study of human nature, and brought back to 
her native land copies from the masters' works and 
portraits from the living representatives of Euro- 
pean nations. Pastoral sketches, full of beauty and 
grace, were mingled with the deeper studies of face 
and form, revealing the breadth and depth of her 
artistic nature. On her return to America, the fu- 
ture was bright with promise. Attractive in per- 
son, her mind enriched by foreign travel, cultured 
and refined, she entered society to win instant 
recognition. Her skill as a portrait painter was 
acknowledged, and her moments were full of work 
and full of joyous hope. 

Here love came in and changed her plans. She 
left the studio for the home ; the easel for the manse. 
In 1875 s ^e married the Rev. Richard 
S. Rust, D. D. Her life assumed a new 
meaning, her philanthropy widened its scope, and 
henceforth she became actively identified with the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. Milton says that a 
poet's life should be a poem. Mrs. Rust made this 
high truth a living fact. Instead of breathing forth 
the poetry within her soul by painting it in vivid 
colors until it seemed to speak, she let it shine 
through her life, adorn her home, and touch other 
souls, until, in place of the dead canvas, the living 



features bespoke her power. She became deeply 
interested in the benevolent enterprises of the 
Church, and was in keen sympathy with her hus- 
band's work. Thus did they together live as one life, 

"And reigning with one will in everything, 
Have power on this dark land to lighten it, 
And power on this dead world to make it live!" 

Their home became a centre of Christian 
activity, and from it went forth forces which 
touched and helped humanity. In 1876, The Phiian- 
Mrs. Rust organized a philanthropic thropist 
movement for the colored people of Cincinnati, 
which continued its usefulness for several years. 
In 1877 she took an active part in the charitable 
work of the city, proposing plans for the ameliora- 
tion of the condition of the poor, which were ap- 
proved and adopted by the citizens, and a thorough 
organization of the city effected which proved most 
efficient in controlling vagrancy and elevating the 
needy. From these early years she was connected 
with the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, 
anxious to cast her influence on the side of temper- 
ance and purity. She became identified with many 
local philanthropies, securing the employment of 
matrons at police stations, and women to take 
charge of the female wards of prisons. Because 
of this latter interest, she was appointed by the 
mayor one of the managers of the female depart- 



8 Ciijabet^ JLotone* Hu*t 

ment of the City Workhouse. Always awake to 
every new enterprise, ever on the alert to improve 
and better the old conditions, she urged and pleaded 
for the admission of industries into the regular 
course of the public schools, and lived to see her 
plans and ideals put into action. Thus, while reign- 
ing as queen in the home, devoted and loyal to her 
husband, constant in loving thoughtfulness and 
tender affection, she was making a strong impres- 
sion on the outside world. She mingled the ideal 
with the real. Her home, pure and true, was the 
absorbing passion of her life; but, with it all, a 
needy and suffering humanity right about her was 
not forgotten, and she went forth with courage and 
eagerness to uplift others. 

In the course of time she traveled with her hus- 
band through the South. She saw the black man 
Observations * n his lonely cabin ; she realized his ig- 
tn the South norance ; she felt his poverty ; she longed 
to help him upward. She knew that improvement 
must come from within, that the people must work 
out their own salvation; but she felt the strong 
desire to reach the mothers and daughters of the 
race, to arouse within them courage and character 
which should overcome the barriers, and lead them 
on to material and moral success. Her sensitive 
heart was stirred, her artistic nature aroused to the 
strength and beauty which suffering and oppression 



€li?dbtt\) ketones &ust 9 

had kept hidden, and she longed to let Christ's love 
and liberty redeem and sanctify until the real per- 
son stood forth in living light, "a man for 2! that." 
She dared to look this national problem squarely 
in the face, to urge speedy and generous action 
towards sending aid to these who bear the imprint 
of night, but whose hearts may be made pure and 
white by the dawning of Christ's day. 

Who knows but for such a time as this she 
has come into her kingdom? Ripened in intellect, 
broadened in culture, consecrated in Entering the 
spirit, mature in wisdom, disciplined and ° pen Door 
equipped through years of experience and the faith 
and courage of a Quaker home, she discerned the 
open door, and was quick to enter and render her 
character and attainments a blessing to Methodism 
and America. Read a letter which she wrote in 
November, 1876, to a friend in the East, as it re- 
veals her thoughts and plans: 

"Cincinnati, November 8, 1876. 

"I hope that your sympathy and co-operation may be secured 
in a plan to interest Northern women in behalf of the freedwomen 
in the South. In view of the great need there is for moral and 
spiritual elevation among these poor creatures, and the terrible 
sufferings they are subjected to in consequence of their igno- 
rance and degradation, it seems that not only their salvation but 
the future of our Government depends on Christian efforts in their 
behalf. 

"To avoid the embarrassment of organizing a new society, and 



io dfcit^abett) ilotames Kust 

to make our efforts available immediately, the Board of Managers of 
the Freedmen' s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church was 
petitioned to admit ladies to its councils, and to be co-laborers. 
This petition was cordially welcomed by the president, bishops, and 
Board, and granted, which opens the field to us at once to organize 
our mode of appeal, and to enter upon the work of collecting funds 
and to send missionaries to the South. While we will not abate our 
interest for salvation of the * * heathen women ' ' in foreign lands, 
let us not pass by, unheeded, the cry for help and the need of 
these, so near our own threshold. 

"The schools established by the Freedmen' s Aid Society are 
doing incalculable good, b"t it is hoped, through the help of Chris- 
tian women, to elevate the homes by the moral instruction of the 
freedwomen. This is an absolute necessity to make Christian work 
among them deeply effective. 

1 ' We trust that the claims of this cause may meet a response in 
your heart, and that you may give to it the assistance of your sym- 
pathy and influence. Several of the best known and official ladies 
in the Church are engaged for the inauguration and carrying forward 
of this movement." 



This line of work in connection with the Freed- 
men's Aid Society was not found practicable, as the 
introduction of women into the Board of Managers 
(by the law of the State) would endanger its title 
to property. Thus failing to secure the needed 
work through existing agencies, the interest aroused 
could not be set aside, but public and private ap- 
peals continued to be made. Women were em- 
ployed as missionaries in Atlanta and New Orleans, 
who for several years were supported by personal 
gifts. 



The approval of this enterprise by The Woman's 
the General Conference of 1880 led to "^ W £ 
the organization of the Woman's Home ciety 
Missionary Society. Let Mrs. Rust tell it in her 
own words: 

"The first meeting in this behalf was called by 
the writer, and held in Trinity Methodist Episcopal 
Church, Cincinnati, Ohio, June 8, 1880. After con- 
sultation with representatives of general Church 
work in Cincinnati, it was decided to form a new 
society. The constitution of the Woman's Home 
Missionary Society, substantially the same as was 
approved four years later by the General Confer- 
ence of 1884, was adopted at a meeting held July 
10th. While recognizing the fact that our cities 
presented the largest, and possibly the most impor- 
tant home mission field, the society, at first, sent 
her missionaries to labor among the neglected popu- 
lations of the South, and employed teachers in the 
West for the planting of Christian schools among 
Mormons and Indians. The contributions of our 
few scattered auxiliaries could be united for the 
support of a frontier mission, but, at that time, 
unanimity in behalf of any one of our cities could 
not have been secured." 

Elizabeth L. Rust had been stirred by her en- 
thusiasm, aroused by a high ideal, until a definite, 
intelligent plan revealed itself to her of putting that 



12 Clijabet^ Jlotones Hufit 

ideal into action. Her faithful husband was her 

help and inspiration. Constant in sympathy, deep 

Leadership * n Merest, eager and ready to advise 

in a New and assist, she found in him the com- 
plement of her own soul. Her heart 
grew stouter, and new joy and courage thrilled her 
being as she felt the throbbings of a kindred nature. 
Women listened to her words, and many followed 
where she led. It was no hasty impulse that 
prompted them to this action. They banded to- 
gether in unity of heart and devotion of purpose. 
They aroused the Church to a new line of w r ork, 
Christianizing the homes within its borders. 

It was my privilege to be with the small com- 
pany of women when this Woman's Home Mission- 
Early ary Society was organized. Come with 

Workers me f or a m0 ment into that cozy parlor 
in Cincinnati, and draw your chair up near the busy 
circle, where you may listen to the discussions of 
that band of earnest women as week by week they 
met and planned, thought and acted. Their brains 
were busy, their hearts were inspired, their lives 
were consecrated, their faith was undaunted. 
Clouds hung threateningly over them at times, but 
they always discerned the rainbow athwart the dark- 
ness. Prayers went up to heaven for Divine guid- 
ance, and I have seen those women stop all work 
and spend that hour upon their knees in fervent 
supplication. That little company, associated in the 



CEUjabetlj 5lotone0 &u$t 13 

name of Christ to study his truth, to live his life, 
to do his deeds, shaped the beginnings of the work 
of this society. There was the fountain from which 
came the streams of Christian beneficence; there 
the roots from which sprang the growth of Chris- 
tian service. Mrs. Rust rejoiced as a mother in 
the birth and growth of this organization. Pain 
was forgotten in rapture; weariness and toil lost 
sight of in success. The urgent needs of the ever- 
broadening field often filled those loyal women with 
fear and trembling; but buoyed up by Christian 
courage, cheered onward by loving co-operation, 
they became more united of heart, more earnest of 
purpose. God held them in his own intention until 
the hour had come when they emerged in spirit and 
in power, his handmaidens united in his service, 
embodied in the Woman's Home Missionary So- 
ciety. Words of exhortation rang in the ears of 
those women, urging them to action : "But one hope 
for our land. It is the gospel. Let us set up the 
Christian Church and school on every hill and val- 
ley, until every wild waste shall blossom as the 
Lord's garden." 

As the Church became aroused, the society 
rapidly grew. The East joined hands with the 
West, auxiliaries were organized in Growth of 
nearly every Conference, daughters fol- the Work 
lowed the mothers' example and formed their 
"Circles," until even the little ones were drawn in 



14 (Eli^abetti flotonetf l&ust 

as the "Mothers' Jewels." We discovered the mis- 
sion fields lying so near at hand, and sent mes- 
sengers with the glad tidings of salvation into the 
distant wigwams of the Indians, the low adobe 
huts of the New Mexicans, the josshouses of the 
Chinese, the cabins of the Southland, the far-away 
homes in Alaska; to the foreigners of every clime 
and hue in our large cities. The Lord marvelously 
opened the way, and his Christian workers followed 
swiftly as he led. 

Never shall I forget the first annual meeting, 
when we hailed with joyous welcome our honored 
First Annual and true-hearted president, Lucy Webb 
Meeting Hayes. Her name and presence were 
an inspiration to our work, and the memory of her 
noble life will always be most precious. Well does 
Mrs. Rust say: 

"The seal of the Divine approval was placed 
upon the society by the gift of Lucy Webb Hayes, 
one of the most illustrious women of the century, 
who for the first nine years of its history was its 
honored president. She came from the Presidential 
mansion, where she had borne testimony to the 
cause of temperance and the truth of the Christian 
religion, to preside at our meetings and participate 
in our deliberations/' 

Reports were uttered with trembling lips; new 
plans proposed, new fields entered, new obligations 



assumed; but at the close of that session the dox- 
ology went up from all hearts. The Rev. Dr. A. B. 
Leonard, in a review of that meeting, writes: 

" The most important event in Methodist circles in the Queen 
City that has recently occurred was the assembling of the first an- 
nual meeting of the Woman's Home Missionary Society of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church on Monday, October 30, 1882. 

"The report of Mrs. Dr. R. S. Rust, the corresponding sec- 
retary, was a carefully prepared and comprehensive presentation of 
the subject, history, and work of the society. The object of this 
society is to enlist and organize the efforts of Methodist women to 
co-operate with other societies and agencies of the Church in behalf 
of women and children, and all classes in our own country, who are 
in need of Christian sympathy and help. There is ample room for 
this new organization. It proposes to occupy a field which as yet 
is almost uncultivated by us as a Christian denomination. We have 
the numbers and the means with which to do this work, and God 
calls us to undertake it in his name and strength. Now that this 
society is fairly before the Church its auxiliaries will increase rapidly, 
and its funds multiply yearly ; so that, in the near future, the home 
missionary work of Methodism will take rank with the most potent 
agencies of Protestant Christianity for the enlightenment and salva- 
tion of the neglected classes of our own country." 

At this meeting Mrs. Rust stated that the great 
inspiration of this whole movement in behalf of 
home missions has been the work of Bishop Wiley, 
who aided in its organization, and has added en- 
couragement during all the way of its progress. He 
has given to it the best effort of his pen, his elo- 
quence, and his money. 



1 6 (Eltjabetlj ilo tones Ifcust 

Ten years later as Mrs. Rust reviews the past 
she rejoices in its prosperity, but pleads 

Outlook r 1 11 

After One * or larger numbers and more earnest 

Decade effort : 

"This Society, in its organization and history, and in the efforts 
of its friends to secure recognition, and awaken interest in its special 
fields, has called the attention of our Church to the neglected por- 
tions of our country, to the dangers which threaten it, to its great 
responsibilities, and to its controlling influence upon the destiny of 
other lands. These efforts have deepened the sense of responsibility 
and obligation of our people, and have contributed largely to in- 
crease the tide of religious effort in behalf of home missions. 

"Since a separate society had been formed for woman's work 
in foreign lands, the autonomy of our Church work could only be 
preserved by an organization of her women in behalf of home mis- 
sions. Our associated womanhood must have an opportunity to 
consecrate a portion of its efforts and funds to the evangelization of 
our own country. There is no reason why woman's heart should 
be moved in tender response to appeals for help in foreign lands, 
while she should neglect those quite as pathetic in our own. 

"There is a clearly defined work for these organizations, and 
each may move in its own sphere without conflict, each shedding 
light and love upon the other ; the Woman' s Foreign Missionary 
Society aiding the parent society in foreign lands, the Woman's 
Home Missionary Society aiding it in our own country, and the 
General Missionary Society, like a wise and loving parent, encour- 
aging both organizations in efforts for the conversion of the whole 
world, all of them being animated by the same spirit, guided by the 
same wisdom, and upheld by the same Almighty power. 

"In this crisis, the Church and State alike require the help of 
Christian women. They alone can carry into dark cabins and wig- 
wams, and adobe huts and garrets and cellars where human 
wretchedness and vice abound, the methods and spirit of the Chris- 
tian home, which is the foundation of the Republic. ,, 




ELIZABETH LOWNES RUST. 



<£ii?atetlj JLototu* ftust 17 

These victories were not achieved without cease- 
less toil and extensive travel. They involved re- 
peated visits, consultations with com- Toil and 
mittees, public presentation of the co^cLpond* 
claims, and the selection of officers, ing Secretary 
which required more than one hundred thousand 
miles of travel. Social pleasures were all aban- 
doned, home comforts often sacrificed, the artist's 
brush laid aside, restful hours surrendered, that 
Elizabeth Lownes Rust might give herself unre- 
servedly into the Lord's hands. Correspondence 
often kept her pen busy until the small hours of the 
morning. While others slept, she planned and 
wrought. Original and inventive, she could not 
rest until some new thought had been put in writ- 
ing, and sent hither and yon for the approval of 
other workers. Leaflets and letters were constantly 
emanating from her fertile brain, which should 
scatter broadcast the needs of the cause and the 
suggestive remedies. The missionaries in their dis- 
tant fields were cheered and comforted by her fre- 
quent messages, and all lines of the work seemed to 
focus at her desk. The humblest toiler found a 
welcome in her home; the faintest call for help 
reached her ear; the suffering and despair in the 
farthest corner of America found a responsive chord 
in her heart. Her ever-watchful eye was quick to 
discern the openings of the present, the portents 
of the future. Summer's heat or winter's cold did 



1 8 dEli^abetli ilotomea foust 

not hold her back from duty; long rides and little 
sleep were not considered when the word was 
needed and the personal visitation desired. She 
spoke not from theory, but from actual observation. 
She visited nearly every field where the society was 
laboring. She came in close touch with the mis- 
sionaries. She realized their bravery and self-sac- 
rifice ; she saw the squalor and degradation of their 
surroundings; she knew the power of sin which 
they were called to combat. 

Her reports were full of interesting informa- 
tion; not mere words and sentiments, but burning, 
living facts ! Arguments, strong and convincing, 
enforced the wisdom of her plans and actions. Her 
logic was cogent; her pleadings were convincing; 
her common sense was an element of strength. The 
training from her youth among the Friends made 
her strong in the faith that God works through 
those who commit themselves to the leadings of the 
Holy Spirit. 

Few knew how tireless was her energy; how 
completely was she absorbed in her work. No 
thought of salary ever entered her mind; no re- 
muneration for service was ever given. To me was 
given the rare privilege of living in her home, and 
I am glad to reveal this unselfish and complete giv- 
ing of herself to others, which lay hidden from the 
outside world. Vacation and leisure were unknown 
terms to her. Rest and ease were no longer ex- 



(Kitjabett) ILoixmtg ISust 19 

pected or desired. Work was God's tonic. As she 
bent in prayer for his guidance, his grace sus- 
tained, his arm steadied, his voice said, "Be strong, 
be faithful, and I will lead you home." 

For nearly twenty years she was thus led, as 
she watched the rapid, wonderful growth 
of her beloved work. Let her own lips an d Growing 
tell the story : H °P e 

"Viewed in the light of the past, the year is full 
of hope, and the influences set in motion for the 
triumph of Christ's kingdom in our beloved land, 
with the accumulated forces of years past, in- 
creased by those of years to come, assure us that, 
though Christ tarry for a season, yet he, at no dis- 
tant day, in conquering power will surely come. 
. . . The rapidly changing conditions in the 
country require corresponding modifications of 
method. The society has demonstrated its ability 
to manage its work intelligently, conduct its busi- 
ness upon a safe financial basis, and adapt its plans 
to the providential changes of the hour. Profiting 
by experience, and with increased funds and influ- 
ence, it is able to take a broader view of obligation, 
look deeper into the problems offered for solution, 
and enter more earnestly upon the discharge of 
duties connected with its mission. ... It 
should so arrange its plans and methods as to be 
prepared for the work of the Church in the twen- 
tieth century." 



2o Clijabetlj iLototus Hutft 

Mrs. Rust realized that the future of the poor 

girl in the South was hopeless without the perfect 

union of faith in Christ and education; 

industrial heart and mind must be alike renewed. 

Established It soon became manifest that to secure 
this object, more was needed than itiere 
house-to-house visitation. In consultation with 
others, the suggestion came, which led to the es- 
tablishment of our Industrial Homes. Their good 
effects were soon apparent, and such buildings were 
erected all over the Southland, reaching and up- 
lifting the womanhood of the race, training the 
poor white and poor black along similar lines, bring- 
ing them more closely together as one in Christ 
Jesus. At the dedication of such a Home, named 
in honor of Mrs. Rust, Bishop Atticus G. Haygood, 
a brave and noble champion of the right, who 
spoke whereof he knew, uttered these strong words 
of approval: 

"Dig wells in the desert and in the rocky 
places. Plant these Industrial Homes all over 
the South. Send out one well-trained woman 
from such a Home; she will be worth a regiment 
of lady missionaries and their visitations. She will 
live among the people who need her; she will be 
a specimen and an inspiration to them; she will 
incarnate what you seek to teach." 



dHijateti* JLotontf Kugt 21 

Is it strange that these Homes met with 
marked success? The matrons are true heroines, 
leaving the impress of their personality upon the 
girls they teach. The girls become living mis- 
sionaries. 

"The dear Lord's best interpreters 
Are humble, human souls ; 
The gospel of a life like hers 
Is more than books and scrolls !' ' 

Within those walls they learn the dignity of 
labor ; they discover that brains and skill are needed 
in the commonest acts of life ; they real- 
ize that the simplest vegetables may be dustrial 
made savory, the plainest utensils be Home 
most useful. Silver or tin may hold 
the same food, but the care and thought in its 
preparation make it palatable. As they pass from 
room to room, from one line of work to another, 
that secret so often hidden becomes revealed — 
the vast difference between housekeeping and 
home-making. One is a business, the other an art. 
They are taught to combine the two, and while 
cleaning up the cabin and making it and all within 
most healthful, they also add the little touches of 
beauty and comfort which shall reach the soul, and 
transform the hut into a home. Thus is their char- 
acter, as head, hand, and heart are alike renewed, 
made all rounded and complete. 



22 dBU^abetlj floume* Hust 

Mrs. Rust caught a glimpse of the new light 
in the cabins. She writes : 

"I have recently visited several of our indus- 
trial schools in the South. Though I had large 
" Light in expectations of this work, yet it has 
the Cabins" become greater and broader in its early 
achievements than I had ventured to expect. If 
this branch of our work can be vigorously prose- 
cuted, it will not be long before we shall witness 
great triumphs in the elevation of the women and 
homes of the poor people all over the South. 

"Observation had given me the facts which gave 
force to this remark. As our train passed through 
one of the richest cotton-growing sections, in a two 
hours' ride, besides the small stations, I did not 
see a single house — only one-room cabins, some- 
times alone, and sometimes in clusters. These were 
without windows, and one unacquainted would 
hardly have suspected that they were human habi- 
tations. At that time I counted in the fields thirty- 
two women and one boy hoeing cotton and corn. 

"We are convinced there is no way of reach- 
ing and aiding the women and girls in these neg- 
lected sections so successfully as by training edu- 
cated young women in practical duties, and send- 
ing them out as teachers. They can carry into the 
distant rural districts these higher ideals of life, 
and instruct the people in methods of correct liv- 



Cit^abetlj Jiotonea l&ust 23 

ing more successfully than missionaries not of their 
own race and unacquainted with their peculiar 
needs. 

"We were greatly pleased by the atmosphere 
of trust and confidence which prevailed in the 
homes visited, and which attested the sweetness 
and firmness of the management. Few of the girls 
have previously known anything better than rough 
cabin and field life, so the restraints and refine- 
ments of a home must be acquired. There was some- 
thing very touching in the confidence of these girls, 
as though the old ways had been laid aside as cast- 
off garments, and a new life was surely entered 
upon." 

Look at the new mother, as she goes forth from 
our Homes ! Visit the place where she reigns as 
queen ! Equal with her husband in in- The New 
tellect, congenial in taste, thorough in Mother and 
housework, full of sympathy for the Homemaker 
needy ones about her, her heart aglow with a 
mother's love; she turns crudity into beauty, dis- 
order into order, the drudgery of work into a joy, 
the cares of childhood into a Divine and holy mis- 
sion. No wonder her boy's eyes sparkle, her two 
rooms attract and allure, — her very living speaks 
louder than any words from pulpit or platform. 
"It is the man who is the missionary, it is not his 
words. His character is his message." 



24 CEU^atmij lloftmeg liufit 

No one rejoiced more than Elizabeth Rust at 
the sight of these blessed results; but while her 
The Field heart was ever deeply interested in the 
Broad as welfare and improvement of the South- 
America i anc [^ w here first her sympathies were 
awakened and thoughts aroused, she was not nar- 
row, or blind to equally great needs in other fields. 

As secretary of the society, in co-operation with 
the Board of Managers, she wrote and planned for 
similar Homes throughout the West. She joined 
her energies with those of others, until the heathen 
within our midst were constantly brought to our 
view, and evangelizing agencies were scattered 
from shore to shore, carrying the redemptive power 
of Christ's gospel into the darkened, benighted 
homes. 

Dr. Daniel Dorchester, Jr., said of this society, at 
its anniversary: "We recognize you as the heart 
force of the moral and spiritual condition of our 
Nation." 

But the far-seeing eye of Elizabeth Rust did 
not stop at the Nation's horizon. She writes: 

"We ought to secure a fuller rec- 

Home and . . r i t T t tt 

Foreign Mis- ognition of the Woman s Home Mis- 
sions One sionary Society, in view of the relation 

Work 

it bears to the foreign field, and the in- 
fluence for good that may be wrought upon the 
world through the evangelization of this country. 




RUST HALL, WASHINGTON, D. C. 



We must save and hold this country for Christ as 
a base of supplies. We can not furnish means and 
missionaries for the wide world, unless the Church 
at home be strengthened and its resources devel- 
oped, unless the baptism of the Holy Spirit shall 
come upon the women, who constitute more than 
two-thirds of the membership of our Church, and 
aid them in their efforts to save this country for 
Christ/' 

Truly, Home and Foreign constantly clasp hands 
in this work for God. We would save and con- 
vert the idolatrous and superstitious in our own 
land; we would train and furnish missionaries for 
their own in other lands ; we would bring the world 
to the foot of the Cross ! 

Every line of work inaugurated by the so- 
ciety, every new field entered, but increased the 
zeal and added to the joy of Mrs. Rust. T . . 

J J Training- 

The Immigrant Homes, which welcomed school and 
and sheltered the strangers as they RustHaU 
landed on our shores; the Mission Homes among 
the Orientals and New Mexicans; the centers of 
help for the Indians ; the blessed retreats for God's 
little ones ; the rapid spread of Deaconess Homes — 
all revealed to her God's approval, but called for 
more efficient workers. She writes: 

"If our Society purposes to occupy this field 
successfully, it must make provision for an adequate 



26 Cii^abetlj Jlotones Huge 

supply of thoroughly trained women for the service. 
In view of these conditions and obligations, we con- 
sider the Lucy Webb Hayes Memorial Training- 
school for Missionaries and Deaconesses, located at 
Washington, D. C, the most important enterprise of 
the society, and the one which should have the most 
generous consideration. The location of the school 
on North Capitol Street affords ample space for 
enlargement, and there is urgent need of additional 
dormitory and departmental accommodations.'' 

This need has been answered in the erection of 
Rust Hall, which will be a memorial to her worth, 
and a blessing to all future generations. Almost 
her last act was to write in its behalf and plead for 
its completion. Standing in the Nation's capital, 
near the place where she was born, overlooking 
the beautiful city, the valley o* the Potomac and 
the heights of Arlington, it well represents her 
sterling character, the Nation's weal for which she 
pleaded, and the intelligence and skill demanded in 
Christ's work. 

Mrs. Rust was a woman of vision. As Paul of 

old, she caught a sight of the risen Christ. The 

moral degradation, the alarming igno- 

of Faith ranee and vice, caused her to think and 

and fear; but she was not overcome, for 

she saw the remedy. She did not tarry 

to think of the odds against her, but timidity and 

sensitiveness were lost to sight as she realized her 



ceii^abetfe iloftmes VLu&t zy 

duty, and gained help from Christ to enter the 
conflict. Bravely, hopefully, enthusiastically, she 
stood for the right. Words written of another well 
fit her character: "The greater the odds, the more 
resolute her bearing; the more desperate the for- 
tunes, the more resonant the ringing cheer of her 
tone. History has shown that a great faith is the 
wisest and sanest of all guides." 

Listen to her thoughtful words, as she looks for- 
ward into the coming years : 

"It is wise, in formulating plans, and in organ- 
izing Christian work, to regard the claims of the 
enduring future, as well as those of the transient 
present. It is the relation that the present bears to 
the future that gives it significance and controlling 
power. Improvements in the management of 
worldly affairs follow in rapid succession, and 
clearer views and greater consecration should char- 
acterize the agencies and methods employed by the 
Church of Christ in elevating the people, and in 
saving the world. It is short-sighted policy to limit 
our plans of work to the present. We should take 
a more comprehensive view of the needs, possibili- 
ties, achievements, and conquests of the twentieth 
century. We should carefully scan the horoscope 
of the future, watch its earliest indications, and ad- 
just our plans and movements to the possibilities 
of philanthropy and religion, as they may be un- 



28 Cl^abetl) ILototutf ftuat 

rolled to our vision by the unerring wisdom of 
Divine intelligence/' 

Women of vision are needed to-day. We are 
at a turning point in the history of Home Mis- 
sions. The era of extension is passing into the 
era of strengthening and energizing. Twenty 
years ago the women were timid and doubtful ; now 
they are full of faith, with plans matured and work 
accomplished. The future lies before them, rich 
with opportunity. Duty bids them enter, and Christ 
promises the victory. 

The true greatness of Elizabeth Rust is revealed 

in her last illness. Heroic in suffering, she con- 

The tinued to sustain her beloved work until 

Hour of both heart and flesh failed her. Her 

numph spiritual sight became clearer, her faith 
stronger, and God gave her strength to suffer and 
endure. It is easy to smile when all goes well. It 
is noble to be joyous in the hour of trial. As she 
left the doctor's room, and received the word of 
fatal illness, she seemed to enter at once into the 
care of the Great Physician. Meeting a friend, she 
said, "I may live six months, I may live six years ; 
but I must work all the harder, that every moment 
may count for my Master." These words were put 
into action, and for three years she tarried not, 
save as the hospital claimed her. Even her sick- 
room became the center of work. While she die- 



CUjabetfc flofcme* Hust 29 

tated scores and hundreds of letters pertaining to 
the welfare of the society, she often penned a few 
choice words to her friends, speaking as from heart 
to heart. One of those who came very close to 
her life was Mrs. H. C. McCabe, and to her she 
reveals the sacred thoughts of that upper room: 

"It has seemed to me that the Angel and His 
presence has been at my right hand constantly.'' 

"I am busy all the time, for the work presses. 
Whether I am to be here years, or only a few weeks, 
that is in His hands. I am blessed in the fact that I 
have the strength and the heart to do what the hour 
demands. I have given my case over absolutely 
into the keeping of my Heavenly Father, and I 
do not worry about it." 

"I am not so strong as I was a year ago. I am 
obliged to rest an hour after working two or three, 
and so I sandwich work and rest all the days. 
Friends think it strange that I try to continue ; but 
why should I not? If God gives me the strength 
and the disposition, I should be culpable if I did not 
use it, and the opportunity in his service." 

"How glad I would be to look into your face, 
and have the inspiration of your well-rounded spir- 
itual life. In the last few days I have grown very 
weak. My talking is very spasmodic, because of the 
oppression of the lungs and shortness of breath. 
The powers of nature seem to be falling away. 



30 <fl?U?Bbtt!) Jlotones fcuat 

When I want to be changed from one side of the 
bed to the other, they help me into a chair, pull 
me around, and then settle me on the other side. 
I can not walk at all. If the miracle we are ex- 
pecting is wrought, I hope to be with you for the 
September meeting, and to be able to keep my hand 
on the work. I give dictations of important let- 
ters every day, almost. The Father is very good 
to me, though I suffer greatly from weakness and 
difficulty in breathing. I feel quite at rest." 

"I find that I must hurry to get my share of the 
Master's work done, unless a miracle is wrought in 
my behalf. But I am not repining. I am so glad 
that He gives me grace to keep all the shadows 
out of our home, and strength to do my work." 

"I want you to pray, dear friend, that I may not 
lose faith and courage. I have all along felt so sure 
of my Helper, and such peace and rest, that when 
these last days the foundation seems to be slip- 
ping away, I was frightened by my own weakness 
to reach my 'tower' — or does God test us in these 
ways ? To-day I feel as strong as Samson (not phys- 
ically, for I am much weaker than at any time since 
I left the hospital). The disease is steadily gain- 
ing a firmer hold. Then I thought maybe, in send- 
ing this extra suffering of the last few days, God 
is rebuking me for my selfishness in thinking so 
much of my own need of healing. I am trying so 



hard to save my life, when I should be willing and 
glad to lose it. My eyes are turned toward the 
'everlasting morning/ I receive gladly the bene- 
diction of service yet a little longer. I ask God 
continually, if my services are needed, to heal, and 
keep, and use me." 

"I am too tired most of the time to think intelli- 
gently ; but I appreciate and I am so thankful when 
a day comes like to-day, that I can get through many 
letters, business of the society — a good, long dicta- 
tion/' 

"I have for some time felt so sure that relief 
would come that I have not made an iota of change 
in my work these last days, though the doctor said I 
had reached the 'last stage' of the disease. This 
morning I gave four hours' dictation, and have been 
busy this afternoon, and with a light heart have done 
my work, singing praises all the time/' 

"My faith takes hold of the promises." 

Does not the power of Christ shine through 
these words ? Do you not catch the note of triumph 
as she steps into the presence of the King ? Almost 
at the last hour, her devoted husband writes : "The 
disease does not relax, and her vital forces are 
weakening. She is full of courage and hope, and 
assures us that she is resting in the eternal arms 
of her loving Father." 



32 Clijabetl) Ho tone* Hust 

She entered upon her eternal rest, October 3, 
1899. 

Strong and earnest words came from many- 
friends, paying tribute to her life and strong 
character. One of the highest testi- Testimonial 
monials was given in these lines by a sister in an 
other Church — Mrs. Eliza G. Sage, of the Baptist 
denomination : 

"The highest tribute to Mrs. Rust is that she en- 
deavored to do her duty to humanity, until this be- 
came her highest pleasure, her ruling passion. When 
I first knew her, as Miss Lownes, she was an artist, 
devoting her superb vitality to that absorbing voca- 
tion. But 'art for art's sake' could not hold such a 
nature as hers. Like Sir Ashley Cooper, she heard 
innumerable voices calling for help. So she quietly 
laid aside her art, and turned all her enthusiastic 
effort into the Christ work. When next I met her, 
she and Mrs. John Davis became my guests at Hart- 
ford, the season that they together traveled over 
New England establishing your great Home Mis- 
sionary Society. I saw that her ideals had changed. 
She had a more glorious motive than any that art 
could give. I was also struck with her great 
earnestness. In 1895, Mrs. Rust founded the Civic 
League. She was carrying great responsibilities 
as the Secretary of your Society. Another woman 
would have considered her hands too full to feel 



CiijabetJj flotones Must 33 

the claims of a new duty. Not so Mrs. Rust, al- 
though she was writing hundreds of letters and 
traveling everywhere in the interests of the Home 
Missionary Society. She felt profoundly that the 
women of Cincinnati were called upon to serve their 
city, and could only do so efficiently through a special 
organization for civic work. Burdened as she was 
with your duties, she assumed this service of in- 
augurating the Civic League. Her first step was 
to create a sentiment favorable to it. She talked 
with individuals in her own enthusiastic way. She 
held conferences with circles of ladies. She wrote 
letters to those whom she could not meet. Judg- 
ing from the number of letters she wrote within 
my knowledge, her work in this direction must have 
been very great. When the first meeting was held, 
over a hundred women were present, all by her 
gentle persuasiveness, and pledged themselves to 
support the movement. She was a veteran organ- 
izer, and her plans were all carefully matured. 
Nothing was left for haphazard. The board of 
officers chosen were able and faithful. Some of 
the most efficient women in the city joined the so- 
ciety; but all regarded that one strong, serene 
woman as the inspiration of every meeting. She 
possessed the subtle power of leadership in a very 
unusual degree. More than that, she possessed the 
genius for hard work. 
LofC.: 



34 (Bli^abetlj iiotame* fcttft 

"The shadow of her last illness darkened her 
life and compelled her withdrawal from the active 
work of the League, but she attended our meet- 
ings occasionally. It was at one of the last meet- 
ings which she attended that she said to me, as 
nearly as I can recall: 'I know not which it is to 
be — life or death; but I am happy either way. If 
I live, I shall be spared to my husband; he needs 
me. If I am to die, I shall still be happy, for I 
know that I shall go to heaven V Her face glowed 
as though heaven itself were shining on it. I have 
often heard Christians speak confidently, even tri- 
umphantly of the immortal home, but I do not re- 
call an instance when the realization of immortal 
happiness so transfigured a face or so thrilled 
through the tones. I felt that it was a revelation 
sent to my distrustful heart through her. It seems 
easy now to see that glowing countenance in the 
presence of the King!" 

Words of like tenderness and praise were spoken 

Loving ^y her co-workers in the Church at the 

Tributes from memorial meeting held soon after her 

Co-workers death# No better thoughts can close this 

sketch and linger in our minds than these tributes 
of love : 

"In an interview with Mrs. Rust, Mrs. Fisk 
asked her if there was anything she could do 
for her, saying, 'We women want to do something 



for you/ 'O no/ Mrs. Rust replied, 'I am resting 
in the arms of my Savior, as a child nestles in the 
arms of its mother ; you can only love me and pray 
for me. . . . 

"Mrs. Fisk introduced Mrs. H. C. McCabe, 
a lifelong friend of Mrs. Rust, and her beau- 
tiful tribute began with a description of the 'upper 
room' in this noble home of Methodism, sancti- 
fied by prayer and by the conferences and counsels 
of the servants of God and the friends of man. Then 
followed the close analyzation of the life and char- 
acter of this noble woman, which Mrs. McCabe, 
from years of close intimacy, was able to give. In 
closing, she said: 'Eighteen years we have had our 
great and talented leader. In her earnestness, her 
creative power, her genius for work, she thought 
of everything, she grasped everything. Holding 
the center, she was ubiquitous on the whole cir- 
cumference. In her the corresponding secretary 
was innate. The true corresponding secretary is, 
like a poet, born, not made. From the open grave 
of one who so long came and went with us, from 
the contemplation of the glory into which she is 
received, let us turn each individually, and seek the 
indwelling of that Spirit by whose ennobling we 
may carry forward with new life and vigor the 
work to which our departed and beloved Secre- 
tary gave, perhaps sacrificed, her life/ " 

Mrs. Fisk then called upon Mrs. Aiken, record- 



36 eii^abetl) notorize ftuat 

ing secretary, who followed with a tender tribute to 
Mrs. Rust : "Where nobler tributes to the life, char- 
acter, and work of our lamented Mrs. Rust are 
woven into a wreath of immortelles, I would add 
only a little sprig of evergreen, — simply giving you 
a glimpse of her as she slowly vanished from our 
sight. During the midsummer days, before the 
ladies left the city, a Business Committee meeting 
was held in the spacious parlors of her elegant 
home. I found her there alone. 'How are you, 
Mrs. Rust?' I said. With a radiant smile shining 
as a rainbow over the tearful face, she cheerily re- 
plied, 'A bit nervous this morning ; but I am better.' 
Two weeks later, I found her in great feebleness 
of body, reclining upon the couch in that large and 
light 'upper room/ of which Mrs. McCabe spoke, — 
the sanctum sanctorum of the home. The heart and 
brain then gave dictation to the ever-faithful secre- 
tary, Miss Wommer. As I inquired after her health, 
she smiled and said, 'O, I am better/ and in earnest 
words spoke of her wonderful trust and unfalter- 
ing faith in God. On another occasion, when in 
the midst of heroic endurance of intense suffering, 
there came the same answer, 'Better/ When last 
I saw her in her own quiet room, scarcely able to 
speak, while the light of eternity shone in her eyes, 
she indicated that she was 'better this morning/ 
My unuttered words were, 'Yes, better further on/ 
Soon thereafter all that was mortal lay before us, 



CUjabetti 2Lotone$ l&ust 37 

encircled by the choicest flowers, while the im- 
mortal had joined the choir invisible, and in tones 
triumphant testified in unison with the unnum- 
bered chorus that 'It is better farther on.' " 

The president then introduced Mrs. Jane Ban- 
croft Robinson as the familiar friend of Mrs. Rust, 
and competent to speak of her life and work from 
this standpoint. Mrs. Robinson said : "Friends, it is 
hard for me to speak here ; for rarely has a society 
of women gathered as we do to-day, to mourn the 
loss of a great leader, and to share in the triumph 
of her great deeds." A short resume of the work 
of the society in its early organization was given, 
the prophetic vision of Mrs. Rust for the society, and 
her self-sacrificing efforts for it during all the years. 
As a friend, she "bound us to her with hooks of 
steel." As a philanthropist, her sympathies were 
not confined to her own Church and work, but in 
local charities she bore her part. But of her work 
as corresponding secretary of our society, Mrs. 
Robinson spoke at length. From the first she had 
a prophetic grasp of the work of the society, its 
magnitude, and its possibilities. When the faint- 
hearted and fearful would say, "We can do no 
more," she would cheerfully exhort and persuade 
and wisely lay the plans that would be accepted. 
She discerned character, and warmly welcomed 
every one who could bring any talent, any gift, 
to the upbuilding of her beloved society. "Our 



38 dt^abetlj ilofcmeg &u*t 

great work now to her memory is Rust Hall, 
named alike for Dr. and Mrs. Rust. This hall 
will commemorate, in a form far more lasting than 
marble or granite, her noble life-deeds. To-day, 
friends, the close of this wonderful century is 
rounding out the twentieth year of this society. 
Could we form into one long procession those who 
have been helped by its beneficent work, we should 
see represented every class that Mrs. Rust so 
prophetically enumerated. There would be the 
teachers and mothers from our colored schools of 
the South ; the Indian girls, and the New Mexicans 
from our Industrial Homes; the women who have 
been guided out of Mormon errors; the Chinese 
girls who have been rescued to a pure, free life; 
the foreign sisters, who, as immigrants, have landed 
on our shores ; the poor, the needy, and the ignorant 
who have been helped by our deaconesses ; the little 
children from our orphanages — all of these I see 
in my mind's eye, as in one grand procession, 
marching along on the highway of life to nobler, 
happier living, because this great-souled woman, 
and all who with her have helped to make this so- 
ciety effective, have been true to their light, and 
'followed the gleam/ And it is no mournful dirge 
they chant, but a song of solemn triumph; for rest 
and reward and blessed immortality are hers. 'She 
rests from her labors, and her works do follow 
her/ " 



JAN 8 1903 



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